Anonymous and K-9 Maverik

I would like to remain anonymous at this point in my journey, I hope you can understand. In these first responder professions it is hard to admit you’re struggling and need help and I am only beginning the journey. First responders are always the ones helping others so the thought of helping ourselves is foreign and feels selfish. I have just recently been able to ask for help and I am finally on the long journey to healing.
I have been a police officer for 12 years. I, like so many others in law enforcement, had a calling to serve; it is in fact called a public service job for good reason. This, along with law enforcement being a “family job” made the decision to be a police officer an easy one and really the only one. I knew I would be a police officer since the day I did my first ride along with my dad as a young kid. Unfortunately, nobody tells you the mental toll the job will take. My life changed, and I realized though the decision to become a police officer was an easy one, the decision to step away from law enforcement would be unimaginably difficult. For the first time I can remember, I had to put myself first, it was time to take care of me. Part of taking care of me was reaching out to Soldier’s 6 for a buddy. I am forever grateful for their help and looking forward to the benefits that will come with this gift.